1996 Nissan Laurel vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1996 Nissan Laurel is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (207 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Laurel. 1996 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Laurel | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
